hi! pcr dna question

[jg102885]

Hello. I am wondering why people even take a DNA test. You still need a antibody test after what ever result you get so why take it other than reassuring you early on prior to 6 months. Is there something I'm missing as to why I see people posting results about negative antibody tests after 6 months yet. Still take a pcr DNA. What gives? If I remember correctly the pcr DNA tests don't even identify all subtypes or groups so why be half sure when most to all antibody tests at least look for 1 and 2...and most newer identify O. Can anyone shed any light as to peoples intentions with this monitering test.

Also if not approved in us to diagnose infection then why would UK approve such a thing for diagnostic use.
I'm just curious and like to be more knowledgeable, please correct me if I said something false. Thanks guys and gals!

[avonelle38]

Because people, like Teak said, are uneducated and want "answers" as soon as possible. They don't want to wait the 3 month window period to be tested, so they do some research on HIV testing and read things about PCR tests or DNA tests being able to pick up infections much earlier than an antibody test... this is not really the case. A DNA test is not a diagnostic test, it can give many false positives, it is very expensive, and it really should only be used during a certain time frame after infection. The ONLY way to diagnose an HIV infection is with an antibody test done 3 or more months after exposure.

[jg102885]

So why even test with that at all? Why even use in conjunction with HIV test. Was my earlier assessment on DNA testing correct.

[Teak]

Those that push DNA testing and those that pay the high cost of the test which will not diagnose recent exposures.

[jg102885]

What is uneducated? Me?

[Teak]

Uneducated.